Malaysia covers an area of about 330,000 sq. km, with just over one-third of it in the Malay Peninsula (bordering with Southern Thailand) and the remainder in Sabah and Sarawak on the north-western coastal area of the Island of Borneo. It is in South-east Asia. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur. It is the business centre and seat of the Federal Government.

 

Modern history of Malaysia begins with the emergence of the Malay kingdom of Malacca in the 14th century. It dominated both sides of the Straits of Malacca and was the centre of trade and spices. It feel to the Portuguese in 1511, marking the beginning of colonisation by western powers. In 1641, Malacca was under the control of the Dutch and was later given to the British in exchange for Batavia. Later, the other states in the Malay Peninsula progressively became British Protectorates. The Federation of Malaya became independent in 1957. In 1963, together with Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore, Malaysia was formed. However, Singapore separated from Malaysia in 1965.

 

Malaysia has a population of about 17 million. It is multiracial, embracing diverse group of Malaysia and other indigenous  peoples, Chinese, Indians and other minorities, such as Eurasians. Although Islam is the official religion, other religions are practised freely. Bahasa Malaysia is the national and official language, with English widely used in business.

 

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy practising multi-party parliamentary democracy. It is a member of ASEAN and the Commonwealth.

 

The country is rich in natural resources and is a leading exporter of rubber, palm oil, timber and tin. Manufactures account for about one-half of total exports. Malaysia enjous a high standard of living with per capita income (US$2,000) among one of the highest in Asia.

 

 

 

The keris is a traditional Malay dagger, which embolises authority and power. It is included as one of the main items of Malaysia's Royal Regalia. Once considered a weapon, it now graces ceremonial occasions and is considered as work of art. The background design depicts a popular "songket" motive.

 

 

Kite (wau) flying is a popular form of Malaysian past time during the windy season especially in the East Coast. It requires much skill, dexterity and experience to make and to fly a kite. Kites are also decorative items, which sometimes grace the walls of Malaysian homes.

 

 

Tepak sirih which is intricately carved, is used to store betel leaves and its accompanying condiments. They are used during auspicious occasions and is a sign of welcome amongst the Malays.

 

 

The congkak board is used for traditional indoor games, played by children with marbles in the Malay villages. It is carved out of wood and consists of numerous variations of the rules, a congkak game is a popular past time. The congkak is placed on a traditional home-woven mat found in most Malay village homes.

 

 

Top (or gasing) spinning is an entertaining and competetive sport amongst the residents of the East Coast of Peninsula Malaysia. It is popular during the period when the rice crop is ripenin and is believed to bring a good harvest. Top spinning competitions are a fascinating crowd puller, with perfectly balanced tops trying to outlast each other.

 

 

The Rebana Ubi is a gaily painted single-headed drum made of thick leather secured by a rattan hoop, with thick wooden wedges at the base frame. These are often assembled in groups of five and played during wedding celebrations. The beating of the Rebana Ubi is a popular gesture for welcoming guests.